This Know Your Benefits article describes how prescription drug costs impact overall health care benefits costs for employers. It includes a discussion about generic versus brand name drugs, formularies and other tips on how employees can help keep prescription drug costs down.

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They’re the same: Generic drugs are exact copies of brand-name drugs and must meet all the same stringent FDA standards. Although they may look or taste different, the main reason brand-name drugs cost more than generics is due to expensive marketing.​They save you money: Generic drugs are often 80 percent less expensive than brand-name medication. The next time you need a prescription, ask if a generic equivalent is available. Or, if your doctor does not specifically tell you to only take the brand-name drug, ask your pharmacist to fill your prescription with the generic version, if one is available. Remember, choosing generics results in substantial savings.

Track Your MedicinesKeep a list of all medicines you take, including prescriptions, over-the-counter drugs, and vitamins and herbal supplements. Bring this list with you whenever you visit a doctor or pick up a prescription. This can reduce medical mistakes and improve the quality, safety and effectiveness of your health care.

Take Your Medications Safely​Medicine is prescribed to help you. But it can hurt you if you take too much or mix medicines that shouldn’t go together. For every medication you are prescribed:

Know what the medicine is for and how to properly take it.

Ask if there is a generic substitution.

Ask about side effects and what to do if they occur. Also, ask what to avoid (for instance, some medication shouldn’t be mixed with alcohol or may make it unsafe for you to drive).

Read the label and warnings that come with your prescription. Ask the pharmacist about anything you don’t understand.

Ask what you should do if you skip a dose or accidentally take more than the recommended dose.

When you pick up your prescription, make sure it is the same thing your doctor prescribed.

If you have any questions while taking the medication, call your doctor or pharmacist.

To stay healthy and safe, follow your treatment plan and take your medication as prescribed. Also:

Ask your doctor if you will need a refill, and how many.

Tell your doctor if you are having side effects.

Don’t share your medication with anyone.

Ask if you need tests to find out if the medication is working.

Empower yourself.

This blog is filled with information to help you become a better healthcare consumer. Search by category to help you better understand and make the most of your benefits programs.